Falling Object Safety on Scaffolds

Scaffolding Safety
English (NZ)

The Problem

"Watch out!" might be the first warning when something falls—but relying on shouted alerts isn’t enough. Even a small item like a bolt or spanner can cause serious injuries when dropped from height due to the velocity it gains during the fall. Falling object hazards are one of the most common—and preventable—dangers when working on or near scaffolds. Today, we’ll talk about how to prevent these risks and keep everyone safe.

Identify the Hazards

  • Unsecured Items: Tools, bolts, or materials left near scaffold edges.

  • Missing or Inadequate Protective Systems: Toe boards, mesh screens, or guardrails that are missing or incorrectly installed.

  • Removing or Bypassing Safety Measures: Workers removing barriers or safeguards for convenience.
    ‍
  • High Stacks of Materials: Stacked materials that exceed toe board height and are prone to tipping.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

1. Always Wear Your Hard Hat

  • Certified safety helmets must be worn at all times when working on or near scaffolds.

2. Install and Maintain Protective Measures

  • Toe Boards, Screens, and Guardrails: Must be in place and secure to block or deflect falling tools and debris.
  • Additional Protection: Use debris netting, canopy structures, or catch platforms to protect those working below.

3. Barricade Drop Zones

  • Restrict access to the area below working platforms where falling objects could injure others.
  • Use warning signs and barriers to keep people out of harm’s way.

4. Secure High Stacks

  • If materials extend above toe board height, use one or more of the following:

    • Mesh panels or screens between toe board and top rail.
    • Guardrails with smaller openings.
    • Overhead protection such as netting or canopies rated for impact resistance.

5. Secure Tools and Materials

  • Store heavy or large tools away from scaffold edges.
  • Use:
    • Tool lanyards/tethers
    • Chocks to stop items from rolling
    • Straps or restraints for large or bulky materials

6. Speak to the Competent Person

  • All protective systems must be inspected and approved by a Competent Person.
  • If you’re unsure about the setup, speak to the supervisor or Competent Person on-site.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

On a recent site, a spanner fell from a scaffold without toe boards in place. It struck a worker on the hard hat, causing a head injury. While the helmet helped reduce the severity, the incident highlighted the need for toe boards and tool tethering. This injury could have been avoided by simply installing the required safety barriers.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Always wear your hard hat when working near scaffolds.

  • Secure all materials and tools on elevated platforms.

  • Never bypass or remove safety systems like toe boards or netting.
    ‍
  • Immediately report any missing or damaged fall protection systems.

Employer Responsibilities

  • Install proper protective systems, including toe boards, mesh screens, and barriers.

  • Ensure all workers are supplied with and trained to use appropriate PPE.
    ‍
  • Appoint a Competent Person to inspect scaffold setups and safety systems.

Discussion & Questions

  • “Have you encountered falling object hazards on scaffolds? What happened?”
  • “What other tips can we use to keep tools and materials secure?"

Encourage workers to share practical experiences and raise any current concerns.

Commitment/Action Plan

Let’s commit to keeping our work areas tidy and secure. Before work begins, check your scaffold for toe boards, netting, and secured tools. If anything is missing, report it to the Competent Person immediately.

Wrap-Up

Falling objects are preventable with the right systems in place. PPE like helmets helps, but proactive measures—such as toe boards, secured loads, and barriers—are what truly prevent injury. Let’s stay alert and committed to protecting one another.

Standards Overview

 Under WorkSafe New Zealand guidelines, employers must:

  • Protect workers from falling objects by using barriers, toe boards, mesh, and overhead protection.
  • Ensure hard hats are worn when there is a risk of falling items.
  • Appoint a Competent Person to inspect scaffolds and ensure all protective systems are in place and compliant.

Disclaimer

These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.

The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.

It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.

The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.

Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

All Rights Reserved Site App Pro 2025

Last Updated:
April 28, 2025